I’ve always been drawn to martial arts, probably because I grew up watching Kung Fu Theatre on TV. I trained in Shaolin Gung Fu for three years in San Francisco during college and I loved the energy it gave me, both physically and mentally.
While I’m trained in gung fu, I’ve always been curious about kali, the national martial art of the Philippines since it’s part of my Filipino culture. Kali is known for its use of dual-wielding weapons; the fighting system incorporates sticks, swords, and knives, which can be used in any combination.
I discovered the Hawaii Filipino Martial Arts School (HFMAS) in Kalihi by chance, meeting a martial artist during a work event. Once he introduced me to the HFMAS lead instructor, my passion for kali began.
The power of martial arts
After attending class and practicing for a year now, I’ve noticed kali helps with my mental focus since I need to move on my feet while wielding two weapons, which has greatly improved my sense of balance and timing.
And mental focus isn’t the only benefit of martial arts. While it’s mainly known for its physical combat workout, factors such as memorization, mental challenge, and being part of a larger community can all contribute to overall well-being.
“As an individual learns and memorizes new martial arts routines, they’re not only exercising their cardiovascular system, but they’re also exercising their mind,” says Melvin Yee, M.D., a neurologist and assistant clinical professor of medicine at the John A. Burns School of Medicine.
Many of the classes involve pairing up with a partner and sparring right after lessons are taught. The immediacy of applying new skills helps with muscle memory and it’s a great exercise for dealing with pressure and learning how to react and defend yourself.
Students sparring.
Sparring with skill
Sinawali is a kali sparring drill where two people face each other and execute a series of striking and blocking patterns. After mastering the routine while standing, students practice it in motion with various types of footwork.
“Wielding weapons and moving in different directions can be exhausting,” says Gene Relacion, an HFMAS student. “But incorporating two weapons teaches us focus, timing, rhythm, eye-hand coordination, and most importantly, how to use both hands equally.”
While modern Kali teaches practical self-defense for the real world, it originated as a form of combat centuries ago. During the Spanish conquest of the Philippines in the 1500s, Filipino soldiers defeated the heavily armed Spanish soldiers with swords, sticks, spears, and arrows.
“It became battle-tested and respected,” says Guro Eric Padilla, HFMAS lead instructor. “And it provided a foundation of what Filipino martial arts is known as today.
Kali training takes dedication and discipline.
Cultural and community connection
Since joining HFMAS, I’ve been welcomed into their large martial arts community. From 20-year-olds to 70-year-olds, I’m grateful to have met such a diverse group of martial artists, all helping each other grow and supporting each other like a family. Being open to asking for help, as well as providing it, helps build relationships and it’s humbling to learn together, become better martial artists, and more importantly, even better people.
“Kali gave me a way to connect with my culture, learn about the history, and feel like I belong – all without needing to speak a word of Tagalog or Ilocano,” says Chelaine Eliazar, an HFMAS student.
This social engagement is also vital for overall health and well-being, especially as you age. “Keeping socially involved helps preserve cognition,” explains Dr. Yee.
Padilla says that kali training provides a sense of calm in all aspects of his life. “It’s given me a better understanding of my Filipino culture and heritage, and a deeper understanding of my role as a practitioner and instructor,” says Padilla, who has trained for 32 years and continues to love and practice the art form.
Hear from kali practitioners and see them in action:
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The Hawaii Filipino Martial Arts School was founded in 1995 by Patrick "Butchie" Amantiad and recently celebrated its 30th anniversary. The school meets twice a week in Kalihi.
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